Demography and social economy, 2015, 3(25):75-86
doi: https://doi.org/10.15407/dse2015.03.016

Vita Dumanska
PhD, Senior Researcher Ptoukha Institute for Demography and Social Studies of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine 01032, Kyiv, blvd. Taras Shevchenko, 60
E-mail: vita_dumanska@ukr.net

Responsible Parenthood: Theoretical Aspect
Section: DEMOGRAPHIC PROBLEMS AND TRENDS
Language: Ukrainian
Abstract: The paper extends conceptual approaches to the definition of the responsible parenthood. We interpret parenting as an integral concept that reflects the equal participation of men and women in child-rearing in modern families; it includes both maternity and paternity. Responsible parenthood is a platform which forms the conscious need for children, the necessary knowledge for the child-rearing and development, partnerships between parents and children during their lifetime.
The author analyzes the current trends in parenthood in Ukraine and their demographic impact, determines how the increasing of the age at marriage and the age of the birth of children, reducing the average duration of marriage, the increasing of women’s economic activity and a father’s role in child-rearing affect the formation of a responsible approach to parenthood.
We have identified the main components and the measurement indicators of the responsible parenthood. The essence of responsible parenthood is disclosed in the context of the ethical, legal, social and economic framework. The components of responsible parenthood are vital and responsible reproductive behavior, responsible attitude to pregnancy and childbirth, responsible parenting and the establishment of positive family relationships. The author suggests a system of analytical indicators for the assessment of a responsible attitude to family planning, childbirth and parenthood.
Key words: responsible parenthood, concept of responsible parenthood, trends in parenting, manifestations of responsible parenthood, postponing of childbearing, demographic crisis.
References:
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